The Registration Office of my Department is currently experiencing an exceptionally high demand for first time registration appointments and immigration permission renewal applications.
I understand that the extended wait times can be frustrating for applicants. I can assure the Deputy that my Department is doing everything possible to facilitate as many customers as possible and I am working with officials to ensure that increased processing capacity is put in place to address the high demand.
The Registration Office within Immigration Service Delivery of my Department provide a live processing date, which is updated every Monday, and is available at the following link: www.irishimmigration.ie/registering-your-immigration-permission/how-to-renew-your-current-permission/renewing-your-registration-permission-if-you-live-in-the-republic-of-ireland/#processing.
The office is currently processing applications submitted from 31 October 2025. Customers may submit their renewal application up to 12 weeks prior to expiry of their permission to allow sufficient time for an application to be reached, and processed, prior to their current permission expiring.
If an application is approved, it may take up to a further 15 business days to receive the new Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card by post.
The Registration Office has also issued a notice to employers regarding the legality of employing someone awaiting renewal. This notice can be found here: www.irishimmigration.ie/notice-to-employers-regarding-employees-awaiting-renewal-of-their-irp-card/.
If an employee’s IRP card has expired and they are unable to obtain a new one by the expiry date of their current IRP card, they are still legally permitted to remain in the State on their existing IRP card for a maximum of 12 weeks. This 12 week provision is subject to the employee providing proof that they have applied to renew their permission, including when changing stamp category, prior to their current IRP card expiring.
Issues relating to employment permits including critical skills permits are a matter for the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. Once a non-EEA national receives an employment permit, they can submit an application to renew their IRP card.
